David Villa signs for NYCFC

Though still almost a year away from playing their first competitive game, NYCFC made a splash this week when they announced the signing of Spanish striker David Villa. Villa, who will be at the World Cup this month in Brazil, is coming off a season with Atletico Madrid that saw them crowned La Liga champions and had them minutes away from winning the Champions League. Although Villa isn’t the player he was a few years ago, he is still an attacking force who had a good season for one of Europe’s best sides. The Villa signing is huge for an expansion MLS team looking to make inroads in a market where there is already an existing MLS.

This signing had been rumored for over a week, and it was confirmed on Monday, as the club released photos of Villa signing his contract, as well as numerous billboards throughout Manhattan with Villa’s likeness. NYCFC is also rumored to be close to signing Frank Lampard, who recently announced he will not be re-signing with Chelsea. Villa and Lampard would be an exciting start for the expansion franchise, although there would be the problem of how to keep those players fresh until the 2015 season kicks off next March. Most expect them to be loaned out to other clubs for the fall to keep their conditioning and skills sharp. Whatever happens, many eyes will be on NYCFC when their inaugural season kicks off next year.